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Gotti's Grandson Sentenced for COVID Relief Fraud

4/21/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Carmine G. Agnello Jr., grandson of John J. Gotti, was sentenced to 15 months in prison for defrauding the federal government of over $1 million in Covid-19 relief funds.
Judge Nusrat J. Choudhury ordered him to pay $1.3 million in restitution to the Small Business Administration (SBA).
Agnello admitted applying for loans for Crown Auto Parts & Recycling L.L.C. under false pretenses and used over $400,000 to invest in cryptocurrency.

History

Historical Context

The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, enacted on March 27, 2020, allocated $2.2 trillion to mitigate the economic impact of COVID-19. The Small Business Administration distributed over $500 billion through the Paycheck Protection Program, but widespread fraud emerged, exemplified by Carmine G. Agnello Jr.'s conviction. This situation underscores the need for enhanced oversight in future relief efforts.

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Story summary

Carmine G. Agnello Jr., grandson of John J. Gotti, was sentenced to 15 months in prison for defrauding the federal government of over $1 million in Covid-19 relief funds.
Judge Nusrat J. Choudhury ordered him to pay $1.3 million in restitution to the Small Business Administration (SBA).
Agnello admitted applying for loans for Crown Auto Parts & Recycling L.L.C. under false pretenses and used over $400,000 to invest in cryptocurrency.

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